Old rail trail ride offers precious getaway for holidaymakers

May 29th, 2018

Bicycle Queensland is offering Queenslanders one of the first opportunities to experience the longest rail trail in Australia, while enjoying the scenic beauty and history of South-East Queensland on July 27-29.

Around 280 riders are expected to take part in the Yarraman to Wulkuraka three-day trail ride – an end-to-end adventure along the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail.

Bicycle Queensland CEO Anne Savage said the ride was a great opportunity for people to experience bicycle tourism.

“The Y2W ride is a great chance for people to take a break, get fit, enjoy the outdoors, and meet other people,” she said.

“The track traverses an old rail line from Ipswich to Yarraman which has recently been restored for bicycle tourism.

“Riders will pass through charming Queensland towns including Esk, Fernvale, Moore, and Blackbutt – glamping out and enjoying campfire camaraderie with friends on the trail.”

Y2W riders will double the population of Moore when they bunk down for the night.

“Rail trail riding is a uniquely Queensland holiday, with Y2W booking out in record time every year,” Ms Savage said.

“The rail trail has grown in popularity in recent years and for the first time this year will include the heritage-listed Yimbun Tunnel, built in 1910.

“The Brisbane Valley Rail Trail will be the longest rail trail in Australia once completed – providing a quintessentially Queensland experience for riders of all interests.”

Ms Savage said the Bicycle Queensland event showcased the history of rail travel and its impact on the development of the Brisbane Valley region.

“Built between 1896 and 1913, the trail used to rattle with steam locomotives hauling timber, cattle and people northwards from Ipswich, fuelling the growth of Brisbane and South East Queensland,” Ms Savage said.

“Though the trains are long gone, the quaint historical stations remain with the rail line now reborn as a scenic off-road trail.”